Jennings channels Orwell in new album
By Phillip Sayblack
Thursday, March 18, 2010
The Hierophant card (or priest) in a tarot deck represents an authority figure. He is depicted in various forms from one deck to the next. But one thing that seems to run the same from deck to deck is that the hierophant is a wise sage-like figure. He holds much knowledge, and provides a sense of calm in times of crisis. Perhaps this makes the name of Shooter Jennings’ new band incorrect. However, it seems a fitting figure for the character, Will O’ The Wisp, in the band’s new album, Black Ribbons.
The entire album, while being a concept piece, is esentially a protest piece. Will O’ The Wisp (portrayed by master author Stephen King) is something of a hierophant who is, as described in some variatins, bull-headed, yet there to provide a sense of calm in a very tumultuous time. He is the voice of reason in a seemingly Orwellian future where the government has taken control of virtually everything in America, including the airwaves.
While protest albums are nothing new to the world of music, the manner in whcih this one has been presented is what sets it apart from so many others. The general sound ranges from Pink Floyd to Nine Inch Nails to something in between as the story proceeds. And the ambience set during the interludes with Will O The Wisp helps set the mood of the entire album. His explanation of some songs makes for a strong, fluid transition from one chapter of the story to the next.
The album is nothing like anything that Shooter Jennings has ever done. As a result, this wil likely end up being either Jennings’ breakthrough, or a commercial failure. It will be an album that fans either love or hate. Regardless, he should be commended for doing something so few artists today do; he has stepped far from his comfort zone and created an album that if for sound alone will make audiences “Wake Up” and listen.
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